Trump, Terror and Theology

Hello

Why does evil grab the headlines? Growing up in the sixties and seventies, headline news often concerned the troubles in Northern Ireland. Even though the UK government had relatively enormous power at their disposal compared to paramilitaries, it was those groups, the IRA and UDF that grabbed the headlines, especially with their bombing campaigns and assasinations.

This actually helped my theology and my understanding of good and evil. In our world God's power is infinitely greater than the power of evil. Yet evil, suffering and violence are still grabbing the headlines. The reason for this is that God is a 'moral' being. He is constrained by His own nature and love. He is not going to use the tactics of the enemy. He is long suffering and as Peter writes 'He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish' 2 Peter 3:8-10.

A government cannot just 'take out' its enemies, round them up and intern them or assassinate them without descending into terrorism itself. A moral universe puts constraints on freedom. A good God makes it possible for His will not to be done. Extraordinary but vital to understand.

What we are seeing in our world order today is a 'might is right' philosophy replacing a rules based world order. Patient statesmanship constrained by the rule of law is far more like God in action than the reckless use of power that has become apparently acceptable as a 'new normal' in our world order. In the war against terror perhaps Donald Trump would be wise to be informed by the way of Christ and the wisdom that is 'first of all pure, then peace loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness'. James 3:17-18.

On a happier note, Congratulations  to Rob Scott-Cook on his 80th birthday this Monday 16th March. It's a great opportunity to say thank you for years of care and prayer.

Happy Birthday Rob

Much love to you all,

David Mitchell

Senior Leader
Woodlands Church Family